Harbingers of Spring: Canada Geese

The ubiquitous Canada goose is one of the most recognized birds in North America. These large tan and black birds with the banded neck can be seen along waterways or migrating in familiar V-shaped patterns which herald the beginning of spring. Canada geese (not “Canadian”) were once endangered from over-hunting, but are now plentiful throughout the contiguous U.S. and Canada.

The Who’s Who of Owls: The North American Spotted Owl

Owls have long been a part of folklore and legend. Often depicted prominently in popular culture, they rank on par with bats and spiders as the most celebrated of Halloween creatures. Owls appear as wise and noble characters in many children’s stories, including Winnie the Pooh, and Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. Possibly the most famous owl, is Hedwig, the snowy owl in the Harry Potter series.

Not So Dumb Turkey

In 1621, the original American Colonists held a feast in Plymouth to celebrate their first harvest. These Pilgrims were dressed in black and white with buckles on their shoes. They invited Wampanoag Indians, and everyone gobbled down turkey and pumpkin pie.